`Magnet Hospital' Status Bestowed For Second Time

September 02, 2005|By Courant Staff Report

MIDDLETOWN — For the second time in four years, Middlesex Hospital has been named the state's only ``magnet hospital,'' a special status awarded by the American Nurses Association to recognize nursing excellence.

The award is presented by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, an arm of the American Nurses Association. Magnet status is given to a hospital that demonstrates levels of excellence in nursing service. Hospitals must meet 14 rigorous standards to be selected.

``Magnet redesignation is often more challenging than the original process,'' said Colleen Smith, Middlesex Hospital's vice president for nursing. ``To say I am proud of our nurses for this achievement is an understatement. They continue to demonstrate their abilities, knowledge and outstanding commitment to the profession and this redesignation is a just reward for their efforts.''

Magnet designation, which lasts four years, has become the ``gold standard'' for excellence in the field of nursing, but is elusive to many hospitals. When Middlesex Hospital received the designation in 2001, it became the 35th hospital in the country to do so. Currently, fewer than 3 percent of the more than 5,700 hospitals nationwide are designated magnet hospitals.

``The magnet process has become increasingly rigorous as more and more hospitals attempt to achieve magnet status,'' said Robert G. Kiely, hospital president and CEO. ``It is a well-deserved honor, not only for our nurses, but for the entire staff of Middlesex Hospital.''

Middlesex Hospital is part of the Middlesex Health System, an independent, nonprofit, community-based health network of inpatient, outpatient, diagnostic, emergency and rehabilitation facilities. In addition to Middlesex Hospital, Middlesex Health System has medical centers in Essex and Marlborough. It serves more than 250,000 residents in Middlesex County and beyond.